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17 Things NOT to do While Camping

There is a lot of variation in the types of camping you can experience. Whether you are boondocking in the wilderness or commercial camping at an RV Resort, here are some of the worst things you could while camping.

1. Forget to Bring Bug Spray:

A swarm of mosquitoes or gnats can ruin a good time in a hurry. In fact it can create pure misery.

2. Not Bring Enough TP:

RVs use a specific type of TP. Make sure you have more than you plan on using for your trip. If you plan on using the campground facilities bring your own just in case it's a busy weekend and they run out.

3. Leave Food Sitting Outside:

Want to attract animals and bugs? Just leave out a meal for them and they'll come out of the wilderness and into your camp.

4. Fail to Give Someone your Camping Itinerary:

Before you set out on your adventure, be sure to let someone know the particulars. What may seem like a silly precaution could actually save your life.

5. Assume there will be Clean Drinking Water:

Always bring a supply of fresh water. Being hydrated is critical in maintaining a good mood and having fun.

6. Trusting your GPS:

Sometimes road construction causes your GPS to go haywire. Other times you may lose cell phone service, leaving you clueless as to where you're going. We recommend a two GPS system. We use our phones primarily and have a Garmin GPS as a backup. Then there is always the old fashioned road map.

7. Start a Fire with Gas:

Fire starters are a great way to get a fire going. Gas is extremely dangerous. I've heard many stories of people throwing gas on a lit fire and burning themselves severely.

8. Set Up Camp in the Dark:

It bothers neighbors and isn't as efficient as doing it in the day. We recommend doing the minimal you need to get through the night and setting up camp the next morning.

9. Don't Notice Fire Bans:

Local authorities post the fire conditions. These are not to be taken lightly. If it's dry and they have a fire ban, do not have a campfire. It's not worth the risk. Many campgrounds will have a rule of "covered fires only" so it's a good idea to check before heading to the campground.

10. Bring Your Own Firewood:

In many cases you can bring your own firewood. Some states have laws which do not allow you to bring your own firewood. For example in Minnesota you must purchase firewood within 50 miles from the campground with an approved firewood ticket to avoid spreading a tree virus.

11. Allow Your Fire to get Out of Control:

Don't build a fire too big for your pit. It isn't a contest of who can build the biggest fire. Keep it large enough to enjoy but small enough to be safe.

12. Feed the Local Wildlife:

Don't give food to the wildlife. This seems fun until someone gets mauled by a bear. The animals will get used to humans as a non-threat and this has caused many negative interactions with humans and animals.

13. Blast Your Music:

Listen to the sound of the trees, the waves, the birds. Enjoy nature rather than the music that you listen to normally. If you are adamant on playing your jams, bring headphones. Chances are that your neighbor doesn't share your music passion.

14. Don't Bring a First Aid Kit:

Let's face it, unexpected events happen often while camping. We naturally take risks and are exposed to situations that are often out of our control. Make sure you are ready and prepared for an injury.

15. Be a Site Hog:

People don't enjoy having someone infringe on their campsite. Make sure you know your "property line" and don't cross it.

16. Get Cocky with your Outdoor Skills:

Nature is a powerful beast that we often underestimate. Just because you've watched more than 10 episodes of Bear Grylls doesn't qualify you as an outdoors expert. Respect nature and plan accordingly.

17. Leave Things at the Campsite for the Next Visitors:

Campers and hikers have a code called "Leave No Trace". It's a great rule of thumb, in fact you may want to take it one step further and leave things better than when you got there.